Focus on Norfolk Southern
Second-quarter volumes were on the decline across all of Norfolk Southern Railway's commodity segments as of late April, setting up for a soft revenue outlook, NS officials said while announcing the Class I's first-quarter earnings. While the COVID-19 pandemic will impact business volumes for the year, the railroad's operating model should generate significant savings, officials said. The railroad also cut 2020 capex by 20 percent due to economic uncertainty. How did the second quarter actually go, traffic and revenue wise, for NS? What other ways do NS officials plan to implement to gain efficiencies? Managing Editor Jeff Stagl provides an update.
Communications & Signaling Special Section:
The 2020-21 C&S Product Information Directory
Moving rail cars and locomotives through yards and across country quickly is critical to increasing rail efficiency and controlling operating costs, so railroads are always in search of new devices, software and data systems for signaling, communications and railway automation. From advanced train control and alarm systems to wire and cable accessories, Progressive Railroading's C&S Product Information Directory is a single-source reference for railroaders seeking communications and signaling technology information, this annual directory includes a comprehensive buyer's guide that features listings in more than 30 C&S product categories.
Technology Update:
Fuel Management
Fuel consumes a considerable portion of railroads' budgets. Finding ways to reduce fuel usage is always a priority, and railroads tap technology to help them do just that. What products and systems do railroads have at their disposal to better manage fuel use? A cross-section of suppliers tell us what's new, as well as tried and true, on the fuel management technology front.
MOW:
Material Handling Equipment
Maintenance-of-way managers continue to seek equipment — including machines that handle and distribute such materials as rail, ties and ballast — that'll help them minimize the time crews spend on the track. And they have an array of products, equipment and services at their disposal. What's new as well as tried and true in the material handling equipment market? Suppliers share information on their offerings.
Bonus Distribution:
- RSI 2020 Education & Expo Conference (Sept. 9-11, 2020, Hyatt Regency Chicago)
- AREMA 2020 Annual Conference & Expo (Sept. 13-16, 2020, Hilton Anatole, Dallas)
Mike Singler
Regional Sales Manager
815-302-7055
mike.singler@tradepress.com